any hardy, perennial, herbaceous (i.e., nonwoody) plant of the genus Sanguisorba (also called Poterium), within the rose family (Rosaceae). About 35 species are known, all occurring in the North Temperate Zone. Sanguisorba species are not widely cultivated. The alternate, pinnately compound (feather-formed) leaves of some species—e.g., S. minor (or P. sanguisorba)—are sometimes eaten in salads or used as an ingredient in French fines herbes. The small flowers lack petals and are crowded into a dense head or spike. The dried leaves are also used to make tea.